Did she love Dick Forsythe?
There was no doubt in her mind that she loved the life he represented; but further than this she could not go.

Yet he was so kind, she thought, and loved her so much.

If, then and there, Dick could have whispered the question which was trembling on his lips, Lois was near enough to love to have said Yes.
Dinner was nearly over; that last desultory conversation had begun, which was to be ended by a bow from Miss Deborah to Mrs.Forsythe, and the ladies were dipping their nuts in their wine, half listening, and half watching for the signal to rise.
"How much we miss Gifford on such an occasion!" said Mr.Dale to Miss Ruth.
"Yes," replied the little lady, "dear Giff! How I wish he were here! He would so enjoy meeting Mr.Forsythe." Lois smiled involuntarily, and the current of her thoughts suddenly turned.

She saw again the fragrant dusk of the rectory garden, and heard the wind in the silver poplar and the tremble in a strong voice at her side.
She was as perplexed as ever when the ladies went back to the parlor.
Mrs.Forsythe came to her, as they passed through the hall, and took the young girl's hand in hers.
"I shall miss you very much this winter, Lois," she said, in her mildly complaining voice.

"You have been very good to me; no daughter could have been more thoughtful.